Toyota RAV4 enters new era with next-gen PHEV and digital experience
Toyota has unveiled its all-new RAV4, which delivers rugged new styling, a next-generation hybrid and latest digital experience.
A global bestseller that’s sold more than 15 million units since its 1994 introduction, the family SUV enters its sixth generation with a bold new look to broadcast its “robust off-road credentials and true RAV4 identity”.
Size-wise, it’s similar to its predecessor, while a redesigned cabin puts the focus on space, refined comfort and an array of new technologies.
It’s underpinned by Toyota’s new Arene software development platform – the brand’s latest step towards fully software-defined vehicles – which powers new safety technologies, beefed-up security and advanced driver and parking assistance features.
It also supports the global debut of a new Toyota multimedia system, accessed via a new 12.9-inch home screen concept and said to incorporate an intuitive, user-friendly design, while regular over-the-air wireless software updates will enable continuous feature improvements.
The MyToyota app will also allow users to personalise services through subscription options, including faster remote services, an improved voice agent, drive recorder and music streaming.
In Europe, the new RAV4 will be available as a plug-in hybrid or a full hybrid – but the line-up is expected to go PHEV-only in the UK.
Two choices of PHEV drivetrains will be up for grabs: a 268hp front-wheel-drive (FWD) version and intelligent all-wheel drive (AWD-i) RAV4 with 304hp.
The FWD version marks a first for the RAV4, delivering a new entry-level version that makes the technology accessible to more customers.
The next-gen AWD-i model comes with more power, enabling 0-100km/h acceleration in 5.8 seconds. It also gets a new, larger 22.7kWh lithium-ion battery that enables an extended all-electric range of 100km (62 miles) and allows for significantly faster charging. It’s able to charge with a DC 50kW onboard charger, capable of zapping up the battery from 10 to 80% in 30 minutes. And a new 11kW AC charger is twice as fast as the previous version – cutting AC charging time to around three hours for a 10 to 80% charge.
The pure hybrid models, available in mainland Europe, also get a series of improvements. The full hybrid RAV4 220 AWD-i’s maximum power has increased to 191hp; in the front-wheel-drive version the figure is 183hp.
The line-up also includes a new GR Sport model, delivering a more dynamic driving experience with a 20mm wider tread and retuned suspension. Motorsports-inspired styling features add in 20-inch black alloy wheels, a standout ‘functional matrix’ grille design with a GR-exclusive hexagonal G-mesh pattern, plus interior cabin cues to emphasise the model’s connection to the multiple World Championship-winning Toyota Gazoo Racing teams.
Prices and full model range and specifications will be announced closer to launch. Deliveries start in spring 2026.






